For the past two weeks, we have been studying rocks and minerals. We started by learning about the different types of rocks (igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary). We created our own sedimentary "rocks" by layering different types of bread, applying millions of years of pressure (or a dictionary, overnight), and seeing how the different layers blended together. We also saw how dinosaurs and bugs can be "fossilized" between layers.
Then we made a solution of Epsom salt and water and let it dissolve on black paper.
We examined the crystals that formed and then used a microscope to look at the shapes (straight edges and angular corners).
MA Science Standards, Earth and Space Sciences; 3. Identify the three
categories of rocks
(metamorphic, igneous,
and sedimentary) based
on how they are formed,
and explain the natural
and physical processes
that create these rocks.
